Trump Waives Russia Sanctions, Citing National Interests, as Diesel Prices Soar

Trump waives Russia sanctions — President Donald Trump signed an executive order Friday suspending new sanctions on Russia that Congress had passed with bipartisan majorities and that he himself had signed into law last month. In the order, Trump said the waiver was in the national interests of the United States. The decision effectively pauses measures aimed at Russia’s revenue streams and gives Moscow breathing room as its war in Ukraine continues.

What the Sanctions Bill Did

The legislation, named for the late Sen. Lindsey Graham, targeted Russia’s largest oil and gas buyers. It allowed tariffs on goods from countries that purchase Russian energy, with China and India among the possible targets. The bill cleared both chambers with strong support and was signed by Trump last month. Many Democrats opposed it, however, because of the new tariff powers it granted. The law requires an unclassified report to Congress before a waiver can be issued; Trump said that report has been sent to Capitol Hill.

The Diesel Deal and Rising Fuel Costs

The waiver follows Trump’s announcement last week of a deal with Russian President Vladimir Putin that releases hundreds of thousands of tons of Russian diesel. Diesel prices have risen almost 70 percent since the Iran war began in February. Trump has expressed frustration with Ukrainian attacks on Russian energy infrastructure and blamed those attacks for pushing fuel costs higher, while downplaying the Iran war’s impact on oil markets.

Zelenskyy: ‘An American Sanctions Blackout’

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy responded Saturday, saying that lifting the sanctions is wrong and only helps Russia. He described the move as an American sanctions blackout and argued that weakening pressure rewards Putin. According to Zelenskyy, Putin now feels joy and happiness and will not stop. Zelenskyy thanked the bipartisan supporters of the bill and praised Lindsey Graham for his strong backing, saying it is difficult without him.

Lawmakers From Both Parties Push Back

Sen. Richard Blumenthal condemned the waiver as craven and cowardly, saying waivers have nothing to do with national security and amount to sucking up to Putin. Sen. Thom Tillis called the decision beyond irresponsible and questioned enforcing a law that passed the Senate 86-11. Sen. John Cornyn said Lindsey Graham would be appalled. Rep. Don Bacon said the president is prolonging the war, not ending it.

Midterm Pressures and a Family Name on the Bill

The waiver comes less than three weeks before midterm elections, with the cost of living a top issue for voters. Darline Graham, the late senator’s sister, co-sponsored the bill and has touted its success on the campaign trail. A fierce Trump ally whose primary win was powered by his endorsement, she has not criticized the president’s decisions.